Named for the remote southern town it flows past, the Cochrane drains out of its own turquoise lake system through classic Aysén country — steep, forested, glacial-volcanic valley a long way from anywhere. It's a smaller, more intimate river than its neighbour the Baker, with brown and rainbow trout holding in pocket water and defined runs that suit both streamer and dry-dropper approaches depending on water height. The town of Cochrane marks the southern end of the Carretera Austral's easy access, and beyond it the fishing gets progressively wilder and less documented. Good wading water for an angler who wants Patagonian scenery without the intimidation of the region's biggest rivers, and quiet enough that a full day can pass without seeing another rod.

• Volcanic glacial